Nathaniel Hawthorne was inspired enough by visits to the Salem, MA waterfront home built by merchant and shipowner John Turner that he wrote a novel, “The House of the Seven Gables”. Today, visitors are inspired by the architecture and artifacts of that same house, called the Turner-Ingersoll Mansion and one of the country’s most beloved historic homes. The house, part of the House of the Seven Gables property, has survived with many of its original period features spanning four centuries of American architectural history. Take a tour of that house as well as Hawthorne’s birthplace and two 17th-century homes and gorgeous seaside gardens with summer and fall plantings. On the property is also the Kids Cove, located in the Counting House, where hands-on activities teach kids about Salem’s rich maritime history.

Whether your idea of fun is Brahms or a local brew, you will find much to enjoy in the activities of the Greater Merrimack Valley. The Lowell Philharmonic Orchestra, the Lexington Symphony and the Groton Hill Music Center offer an array of classical, pops, jazz and chamber music concerts. Catch a vibrant, contemporary play at the Merrimack Repertory Theater, go on a snowshoe tour at the deCordova Sculpture Park & Museum or visit the masterworks at the Whistler House Museum of Art. Dine, shop, see a film or listen to a concert at lively Mill No. 5 in Lowell. Take a trip through the history of the graphic arts at the Museum of Printing (check out their typewriter collection), or grab a brew at Lord Hobo Brewing Company’s Woburn taproom.

Explore the history of the infamous witch trials when you visit the Salem Witch Museum. The museum, which opened the doors of its renovated historic church building in 1972, brings to life the stories of the 20 women and men executed as a result of the 1692 trials. The immersive exhibit includes 13 life-size stage sets with figures, dramatic lighting and narration. A second exhibit, “Witches: Evolving Perceptions,” looks back at the meaning of the word “witch” through time and the evolution of stereotypes and scapegoating. Presentations occur every half-hour, and visitors should plan to spend an hour in the museum. A gift shop features items from apparel and locally made treats to spell books and tarot cards. There is parking nearby in several garages.